Amy Reynolds Travelling alone can be one of the richest experiences you’ll ever have, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and know some strategies you can use stay safe.
Research before you go
Sites like the Australian Government’s Smartraveller are invaluable tools to ensure you’re not venturing into risky territories. These sites provide key information on individual destinations, including broad travel advice, as well as guidelines on safety, health, and local legislation. Similarly, you should research your destination in depth to ensure you can plan to avoid any sketchy areas. This is especially important when booking accommodation, as you will likely be returning in darkness after a long day out.
Stick to the beaten path
Take this trip with a grain of salt: there’s beauty in exploring the unknown and untouched. However, especially if it’s your first solo trip, staying with the crowds is a good way to ensure that you don’t get into too much trouble, or accidentally wander into a dangerous situation. However, when you’re at tourist hotspots, you should remain on the lookout for petty criminals like pickpockets, who also seek to victimise unsuspecting travellers.
Invest in safety gadgets
A quick Google search yields several results for personal safety devices. It can be difficult to distinguish between what’s gimmicky and what might actually come in handy, but here are a few to consider:
- Personal alarm: these are small and very portable, emitting a loud sound which will attract the attention of passersby
- Door lock: this will allow an extra level of security in your accommodation, but may not be a viable option in shared dorms
- Lanyard/keyring attaching valuables to your person: it’s easy to throw your phone and keys in your pocket, but this one extra step secures them further
- Anti-theft zippers / bag locks: making yourself a harder target is an excellent deterrent against petty thievery, making the extra seconds it takes you to open you bag very much worth it in the long run
- Airtag: while this won’t help you in the moment of an emergency situation, it might assist you in recovering stolen bags or belongings
Leave your valuables at home
Though not always feasible, leaving valuables at home can be a great way to ensure they aren’t stolen. For jewellery, you may even choose to invest in travel ‘dupes’ from Amazon or Etsy to replicate the look of your normal jewellery, without running the risk of losing it.